Best Dispersed Camping near Cherokee, NC

The mountains around Cherokee, North Carolina, have several good dispersed camping spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Sunburst Campground has basic sites where you'll need to bring everything you need since there are no facilities. If you cross into Tennessee within the park, you'll find some remote camping spots, but make sure you follow Leave No Trace practices. Most public land in this area requires you to camp a certain distance from roads and water. You can't stay too long in one spot - rangers enforce stay limits to keep the land in good shape. Many of the best spots need a vehicle with good clearance since the roads can get rough, especially after rain. Check on current fire rules before your trip, as they change seasonally and with conditions. These camping spots are completely undeveloped, which means you'll have quiet and space to yourself. Pack garbage bags to take all your trash out with you, and know the park rules before you go.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cherokee, North Carolina (58)

    1. Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    8 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    25 miles
    Website

    "Right off the road, the short couple yards dirt road entrance to the campsite had a couple big pot holes that requires accurate driving around, but the campsite had at least three spots for seclusion for"

    "Good place for me to overnight, there are no facilities, the entrance is a bit hidden google maps will get you very close look for the small tent sign on your right when headed away from the parkway my"

    2. Wesser Bald Fire Tower

    2 Reviews
    Almond, NC
    21 miles
    Website

    "The best option would be to bring a hammock and perch up in some of the nearby trees. There is a small spot on the ground you could set up a tent or just sleep on top of the firepower."

    3. Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "Perfect for tent camping right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Campsites are next to the road under the pine trees or you can camp on top of the mountain."

    "You MUST camp outside of 1000ft from road. You WILL get investigated by park Rangers, which stepped up enforcement of this stupid, pointless law around 2 years ago."

    4. FS 289 Pull Off

    2 Reviews
    Hartford, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "You need a good off road capable vehicle to access this site but it is very peaceful with a nice stream running by."

    "Another review recommended an off-road vehicle or a jeep to get here. In dry conditions, I got here just fine in an Outback Wilderness, and 5 minutes later a Prius drove up."

    5. Bartram Trail Campground near Franklin

    2 Reviews
    Franklin, NC
    22 miles
    Website

    "Set up camp along the trail. Couple of places have been flattened out by previous campers; made setup a breeze. Plenty of places for a hammock as well."

    6. Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    14 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    34 miles

    "Each has a picnic table, fire pit/grill, and level area for 1-2 tents (a few can accommodate more if you’re ambitious), and lake views (most have lake access if you want to put in a kayak or canoe)."

    "The only downside to this campground is that for half of the sites the parking is across the small access road. This would be most ideal for tent camping."

    7. Lake Santeelah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "I was hoping to car camp a little closer to NOC but not in a campground but this is the closest I could find in February. I would definitely stay here again!"

    "GPS coordinates got me exactly to where I wanted to go. Lots of twists and turns going up the dragon with beautiful scenery of the trees changing colors in late October."

    8. Lake Santeetlah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 479-6431

    "Campground Review:

    The Nantahala National Forest, due south of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is chock full of free semi-developed campsites – some are drive-up, some are boat-up, and"

    "We got a spot right on the lake. It was nice and quiet. The view was great for watching the sunset. I think there was a pit toilet but we didn’t check it out."

    9. Sunburst Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Waynesville, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 577-4910

    $25 / night

    10. Bartram Trail Campground Past Wayah Bald

    1 Review
    Nantahala National Forest, NC
    24 miles
    Website

    "After continuing on the trail heading east leaving from Wayah Bald you pass several large open fields which could work for setting up camp and eventually you get to this site which is a little more of"

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Showing results 1-10 of 58 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cherokee, NC

124 Reviews of 58 Cherokee Campgrounds



Guide to Cherokee

Dispersed camping near Cherokee, North Carolina, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots are perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and beauty.

Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Cherokee

  • Experience breathtaking vistas at the Wesser Bald Fire Tower, where you can set up a hammock and enjoy the sunrise from a stunning vantage point.
  • The Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping area provides expansive views above the clouds, making it a perfect spot for sunset watchers and stargazers alike.
  • For those looking for a peaceful retreat, Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed offers secluded sites surrounded by serene forest, ideal for unwinding after a day of hiking.

Top Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Sam Knob Trail leads you through beautiful landscapes, offering access to various dispersed camping spots along the way, perfect for those who want to combine hiking with camping.
  • Hikers can explore the Bartram Trail, with options like the Bartram Trail Campground near Franklin, which provides a great base for day hikes and scenic views.
  • The Whiterock Gap Backcountry Campsite is conveniently located along the Bartram Trail, making it an excellent choice for those looking to hike and camp in one trip.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out FS 289 Pull Off

  • The FS 289 Pull Off is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful setting with a nearby creek, perfect for those who enjoy fishing or simply relaxing by the water.
  • This site is accessible by vehicle, making it a great option for campers who prefer to drive in and set up without the hassle of a long hike.
  • With its remote location, the FS 289 area allows for a tranquil camping experience, away from the crowds, making it ideal for those seeking solitude in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Cherokee, NC?

Dispersed camping sites near Cherokee typically offer minimal amenities, with most being truly primitive. Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites stands out by providing picnic tables, fire pits/grills, and level areas for 1-2 tents at each site, plus most have lake access for kayaks or canoes. Similarly, Lake Santeetlah Dispersed offers semi-developed sites with some large enough for RVs. Most dispersed sites don't have potable water, electricity, bathrooms, or trash service - pack-in, pack-out principles apply. Cell service varies by location, with coverage generally better at higher elevations. Some sites feature nearby streams for non-potable water, but you should bring all supplies, including drinking water, food, and toilet paper.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Cherokee National Forest?

Cherokee National Forest offers several free dispersed camping options. Paint Creek Corridor provides dispersed sites throughout the corridor, though they can be challenging to locate with some areas marked as no camping. For a more accessible option with mountain views, Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites offers free camping with multiple secluded spots suitable for both tent and car camping, located just off Highway 215 near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Look for the small tent sign when navigating. While not all sites have amenities, these areas provide beautiful natural settings without camping fees. Most dispersed sites in the national forest operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early, especially during peak seasons, is recommended.

Do I need a permit for tent camping in dispersed areas near Cherokee?

Generally, no permit is required for dispersed tent camping in Cherokee National Forest. Sites like Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites and Glen Falls Backcountry Campground are available without formal permits. However, there are important regulations to follow: camping is typically limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period; you must camp at least 100 feet from water sources; and sites must be at least 1/4 mile from developed recreation areas. While permits aren't required, some areas may have fire restrictions depending on conditions. It's always recommended to check with the nearest Forest Service office before your trip, as regulations can change seasonally. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and minimizing your impact on these natural areas.

Are there any seasonal restrictions for dispersed camping in Cherokee National Forest?

Cherokee National Forest dispersed camping does have seasonal considerations. Access to some areas like FS 289 Pull Off requires good off-road capable vehicles, which becomes more challenging during winter months or after heavy rainfall. Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping in nearby Pisgah National Forest experiences similar seasonal restrictions, with higher elevations often inaccessible during winter. Most dispersed sites remain open year-round, weather permitting, but services are reduced in winter. Fire restrictions may be implemented during dry summer and fall periods. The most comfortable camping seasons are late spring through early fall. Always check the Cherokee National Forest website or contact a ranger station for current conditions and restrictions before your trip, especially during extreme weather periods.